Victor Osimhen is the latest Serie A striker to be targeted by the Saudi Pro League as Al Ahli makes a move to secure his services. The Saudi club has submitted an initial bid to Napoli for a package worth over €65 million. While Napoli appears ready to part ways with the Nigerian forward, no agreement has been reached between Osimhen and Al Ahli so far.
🚨🇸🇦 More on Victor Osimhen story.
The agreement between Napoli and Al Ahli for package in excess of €65m is almost done, pending small details.
But NO agreement with Osimhen so far as Nigerian striker wants an important salary + KEY DETAIL: release clause to be included. pic.twitter.com/Z9vnSTdIEE
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 25, 2024
The deal remains uncertain on the player’s side, as Osimhen is carefully considering his options. He has made it clear that he is not open to a loan move, signaling that any potential transfer would need to be a permanent one, and insisting on a release clause to be inserted into the contract. At Al Ahli, Osimhen could join high-profile players like Roberto Firmino, Riyad Mahrez, and Franck Kessie, who have already made the switch to the Saudi league.
Meanwhile, Napoli secured their first victory of the 2024/25 season with a commanding 3-0 win over Bologna, marking Antonio Conte’s first league win as the club’s manager. Kvicha Kvaratskhelia starred in the match, recording both a goal and an assist. Victor Osimhen was absent from the squad, not even listed among the substitutes on the bench, fueling further speculation about his future with the club.
The pursuit of Osimhen by Al Ahli comes amid a broader trend of Saudi clubs attempting to lure top talent from Europe with lucrative offers. However, not all players are swayed by the financial incentives. Paulo Dybala, for example, recently turned down a €75 million salary offer over three years from Al Qadsiah. Dybala cited various reasons for his decision, including family considerations, his commitment to his current team, and his desire to remain in Europe.